Chief Information Officer What They Do

Just the Facts

Insider Info

CIOs are senior executives. They are responsible for all aspects of a company's
information technology (IT) and computer systems. They also go by titles such
as director or vice-president of information technology.

CIOs oversee a company's technical purchases. They look after services
related to the IT department.

But CIOs aren't just techies. Their role crosses over technical and management
boundaries. CIOs organize a company's technology department so that it works
with and enhances the company's business strategy.

Have you heard of knowledge management? This new term refers to the organization
of technological information so that it is understandable and usable in a
business setting.

CIOs work with senior management in companies, usually reporting directly
to the CEO (chief executive officer) or the CFO (chief financial officer).

Because CIOs are high up on the managerial ladder, they often have spacious
offices. In larger corporations, they have secretarial staff available to
assist them.

Like other top executives, CIOs often work long hours and on weekends.
However, in some corporations, their schedules may be flexible.

CIOs don't have many physical demands. However, the job may require them
to travel frequently to various company offices, to meetings and to conferences.

At a Glance

Stay on top of a company's technology needs

CIOs often work long hours and on weekends

The job may require them to travel frequently

CIOs often need to have a bachelor's or postgraduate degree in computer
science

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